Saltwater crocodile

Crocodylus porosus

Identification:

The Saltwater or Estuarine Crocodile is a broad-snouted species that grows to a large size (up to 7 metres but rarely more than 5 metres). This is the largest of all living crocodiles.

Distribution:

Islands of the western Pacific, India, south-east Asia, New Guinea and northern Australia. In Queensland, Saltwater Crocodiles may be encountered in the sea or any coastal waterway north of Rockhampton. Individuals are occasionally seen as far south as the Mary River (Gympie).

Habitat:

Coastal rivers, swamps and lagoons – will readily enter the ocean.

Danger:

Dangerous. Due care should be taken when approaching the water or undertaking water-related actives within the known distribution of this species. Crocodile warning signs are posted on many northern waterways and these should be heeded at all times.Problem crocodiles should be reported to the Department of Environment and Resource Management, phone 1300 130 372.

Food:

A broad range of crustaceans, fish, reptiles, birds and mammals. Large crocodiles can overpower large mammals such as pigs, horses and cattle. Humans are also occasionally taken.

Breeding:

As many as 60 hard-shelled eggs are laid in a mound of vegetation and soil during the wet season. These take around three months to hatch and are guarded by the female throughout this time.

Queensland Museum's Find out about... is proudly supported by the Thyne Reid Foundation and the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation.